Citron
الأترج · Citrus medica
One of the oldest citrus fruits, with a big fragrant yellow fruit and thick peel. It is well known in Wadi Al-Dawasir (Riyadh region) and Qatif (Eastern Province).
Quick facts
| Arabic name | الأترج |
|---|---|
| English name | Citron |
| Scientific name | Citrus medica |
| Family | Citrus family (Rutaceae) |
| Plant type | Evergreen shrub or small tree |
| Height | 2 to 4 m |
| Water use | Medium |
Planting and harvest calendar
February to April
November to February
Times are general for the Saudi climate and may shift a few weeks by region: cooler in the highlands and the north, warmer on the coasts and in the south.
Description
A thorny shrub with shiny oval leaves and white-purple flowers. The large bumpy fruit has thick peel and little sour pulp.
Where it grows
Grown in farms and homes. Wadi Al-Dawasir and Qatif are well known for it, and the fruit is picked in winter.
Soil
Light, well-drained soil. It does not handle high salt.
Water and irrigation
Regular moderate watering. Avoid water standing around the trunk.
Climate and light
Likes warmth and sun. It is more sensitive to cold and frost than other citrus.
Propagation
Easy from cuttings, or by seed or grafting.
Benefits and uses
- Its peel is used in jams and sweets
- Essential oil is made from it
- A traditional fruit given as a gift and for decoration
- Rich in vitamin C
Drawbacks
- Little and sour pulp
- Thorny branches
- Sensitive to cold
Important notes
The citron is mentioned in a Prophetic hadith as an example of good smell and taste.
Sources and references
The information was collected and checked from these scientific sources:
- Plants of the World Online (POWO) - Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew: Citrus medica
- Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF): Citrus medica
- Wikipedia: Citron
- FAO Crop Calendar - Food and Agriculture Organization
- Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture (MEWA)
- Photo source: Wikimedia Commons (free license)